Plastic Surgery Center
of Fairfield, CT

The Basics of Breast Implants

For my breast augmentation patients in Fairfield, CT, choosing breast implants is one of the most exciting—and potentially nerve-wracking—parts of their procedure. Choosing the right implants is key to achieving your desired results. Of course, choosing the right surgeon is even more important, and he or she will guide you in your search for the optimal implant. This post will identify and describe each of the implants we offer to help you prepare for your consultation.

Saline Breast Implants

We offer saline implants, which are filled with a sterile, biocompatible saltwater solution. Part of the appeal of these implants is that, in the rare event of a leak or rupture, the saline is harmlessly absorbed by the body. They are also the least expensive type of implant.

These implants come in either round or anatomical shapes, and can be smooth or textured.

Since saline implants are filled after insertion, they require the smallest incisions. This also allows the surgeon flexibility when addressing asymmetry, since he or she can customize the fill level.

This is the only type of implant approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in women ages 18-21.

A saline implant will immediately deflate upon rupture, causing visible asymmetry. Other common complaints about saline implants include sloshing and rippling, and a less-natural looking and feeling result.

IDEAL IMPLANT®

At my practice, I offer the new IDEAL IMPLANT® that affords the peace of mind of saline with a more natural result. The implant has a unique internal structure of multiple nested silicone shells filled with saline solution. This provides durability and controls the movement of the saline, creating a more natural look and feel. There is no risk of “silent” or undetected rupture.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone gel-filled implants create a remarkably natural look and feel. They are not typically associated with the visible rippling that saline implants can cause. Regular silicone implants are cohesive, which means that the molecules that make up the gel stick together. This is unlike the free-flowing liquid in saline implants.

Silicone implants come in shaped or round forms. Traditional silicone implants are more dense than saline implants, but less dense than gummy bear implants. This makes them a good option for patients who want something in the middle of the implant spectrum.

Silicone gel implants are approved for use in patients 22 years and older.

Gummy Bear Implants

Gummy bear implants are a newer option for women seeking silicone breast implants. They are highly cohesive—the molecules hold together even more than regular silicone gel. The filling in these implants will not ooze or leak even when the implant is cut in half. This consistency is what earned them the nickname “gummy bear implants.”

These implants are known for creating results that look and feel like real breasts. They come in both round and anatomically shaped. Some evidence suggests that there is a lower incidence of capsular contracture with gummy bear implants. Women must be 22 or older to undergo cosmetic breast augmentation with gummy bear implants.

There is no single implant type that is perfect for all patients. Your body type and personal preferences are important factors in choosing the best implant for you. To learn more about implant selection, refer to this previous blog post. If you want to see and feel the different implant types in person, request a consultation online and I will be happy to meet with you and discuss your options.

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